India Ready to Eat Meals Market Research Report By Type (rice and noodles, salads, gravies and curries, pasta and pizzas, soups, others) and By Distribution Channel (store-based, non-store-based)- Forecast to 2035

India Ready to Eat Meals Market Overview

India Ready to Eat Meals Market Size was estimated at 5.72 (USD Billion) in 2023. The India Ready to Eat Meals Market Industry is expected to grow from 6.34(USD Billion) in 2024 to 22.36 (USD Billion) by 2035. The India Ready to Eat Meals Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 12.135% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).

   

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Key India Ready to Eat Meals Market Trends Highlighted

The India Ready to Eat Meals market is experiencing a significant shift driven by evolving consumer lifestyles and increasing urbanization. A key market driver is the growing need for convenience among busy professionals and young families, who often seek quick meal solutions without compromising on taste or nutritional value. Additionally, the rise in nuclear families and the fast-paced lifestyle in urban areas contribute to the demand for ready-to-eat options that cater to immediate consumption needs. Opportunities in the market are vast, particularly for brands that offer innovative flavors and healthier ingredients. There is a noticeable shift towards organic and locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the increasing health consciousness among Indian consumers.This trend presents an opportunity for established brands and new players to gain market share by promoting products that are consistent with dietary preferences, such as vegetarianism, which is profoundly ingrained in Indian culture. In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift toward online purchasing for ready-to-eat meals, which has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, a significant number of consumers have adapted to online grocery shopping. The expansion of e-commerce platforms is increasing accessibility, enabling lesser brands to reach a broader audience without the need for substantial investment in physical retail spaces. Packaging innovations, such as eco-friendly materials, are also acquiring popularity as consumers become more cognizant of environmental concerns. The future landscape of the Ready to Eat Meals market in India is being influenced by the increasing importance that Indian consumers place on convenience, sustainability, and variety in their meal choices as the market evolves.

India Ready to Eat Meals Market Drivers

Increasing Urbanization and Busy Lifestyles

India has witnessed rapid urbanization, with approximately 34% of the population living in urban areas as of the latest census. This trend is expected to rise, driving the demand for convenient meal options such as Ready to Eat Meals. The National Urban Transport Policy has been emphasizing the importance of addressing the food and nutrition needs of urban residents. Established organizations like Hindustan Unilever and ITC Limited are capitalizing on this urban shift by developing new product lines tailored for urban consumers' fast-paced lifestyles.With a growing number of professionals and students seeking quick meal solutions, the India Ready to Eat Meals Market Industry is poised for significant growth.

Rise in Disposable Income and Changing Consumer Preferences

The Indian economy has undergone substantial growth, leading to increased disposable incomes among its citizens. According to the Ministry of Finance, the per capita income has been rising, contributing to a shift in consumer preferences toward more convenient food options. This trend is particularly evident among millennials and Gen Z, who prioritize convenience due to their busy schedules. Brands like Nestle and Britannia are responding to these changing preferences by expanding their Ready to Eat Meals range, thus significantly boosting the India Ready to Eat Meals Market Industry.

Growth of E-Commerce and Online Food Delivery

The exponential growth of e-commerce in India has significantly altered consumer shopping habits. According to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, internet penetration has reached over 700 million users, paving the way for online grocery shopping and food delivery. This trend is directly influencing the India Ready to Eat Meals Market Industry, as consumers increasingly prefer purchasing ready meals online for their convenience.Companies like Zomato and Swiggy have linked up with established food brands to offer an extensive selection of Ready to Eat Meals to consumers, catering to the large demographic shift towards online shopping and food consumption.

India Ready to Eat Meals Market Segment Insights:

Ready to Eat Meals Market Type Insights

The India Ready to Eat Meals Market is characterized by a diverse array of offerings, showcasing a variety of food types that cater to changing consumer preferences and lifestyles. As urbanization accelerates in India, the demand for convenience food options is on the rise, leading to significant growth in various types of ready-to-eat meals. Among these, rice and noodles are particularly prominent, serving as staple options that resonate well with the traditional palate of many Indians. This segment often incorporates a fusion of flavors, ensuring both familiarity and innovation, which strongly appeals to consumers seeking quick yet satisfying meals.Salads are emerging as a fresh and healthy alternative, attracting health-conscious individuals who are increasingly prioritizing nutrition without compromising on convenience. Gravies and curries play an essential role in the Indian diet, offering rich and flavorful options that cater to regional tastes, thereby ensuring their significant presence in the market. Pasta and pizzas, while often associated with Western cuisine, have been localized to cater to Indian consumers' culinary preferences, making them popular choices among the younger demographic.Soups provide a lightweight, nutritious option that is gaining traction, particularly during the colder months or as a light meal. Other unique offerings continue to emerge as diverse consumer needs are recognized, adding further variety to the market. Collectively, these segments reflect the evolving landscape of food consumption in India, highlighting a critical shift toward convenience without sacrificing quality or tradition. The growth of the India Ready to Eat Meals Market is fueled by busy lifestyles, the expanding presence of organized retail, and increasing disposable incomes, creating abundant opportunities for stakeholders in this industry to innovate and expand their offerings in line with consumer expectations.

   

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Ready to Eat Meals Market Distribution Channel Insights

The Distribution Channel segment of the India Ready to Eat Meals Market is critical, comprising both store-based and non-store-based channels that facilitate consumer access to these meals. Store-based channels, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores, have gained traction due to their ability to provide a wide selection of products, instant availability, and the convenience of shopping. In India, the expanding urban population and busy lifestyles have increasingly favored such retail environments. Conversely, non-store-based channels, encompassing online platforms and direct-to-consumer deliveries, are rapidly evolving.The surge in internet penetration and smartphone usage has catalyzed the growth of e-commerce, providing consumers with a convenient way to purchase ready-to-eat meals from the comfort of their homes. This distribution mix enables brands to reach a diverse consumer base while tapping into changing shopping preferences, particularly among younger, tech-savvy shoppers. Both channels play significant roles in enhancing market reach and have become vital components amid shifting consumer behaviors in India, marking a transformative phase in the country's food retail landscape.Overall, the dynamic interplay between store-based and non-store-based channels drives innovation and growth within the India Ready to Eat Meals Market.

India Ready to Eat Meals Market Key Players and Competitive Insights:

The India Ready to Eat Meals Market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by changing consumer lifestyles and a growing demand for convenience in food options. This sector is characterized by a diverse range of products, catering to various tastes and preferences, and includes several key players vying for market share. Insight into the competitive landscape reveals a dynamic environment where innovation, brand loyalty, and distribution strategies play crucial roles. Companies in this market employ various techniques to differentiate their offerings, including product quality, pricing strategies, and marketing campaigns aimed at educating consumers about the benefits of ready-to-eat meals. As urbanization continues to rise and consumer habits evolve, the competitive dynamics of the market will likely shift, leading to new opportunities and challenges for existing and new entrants.Hindustan Unilever has established a strong presence in the India Ready to Eat Meals Market, leveraging its robust distribution network and brand equity. The company offers a range of meal solutions that cater to the varying preferences of Indian consumers, ensuring that it remains relevant in a rapidly evolving market. Hindustan Unilever's strengths lie in its comprehensive understanding of local tastes and preferences, allowing the company to develop products that resonate with consumers. Their commitment to quality and innovation is reflected in their product offerings, which often feature authentic flavors and premium ingredients. Furthermore, Hindustan Unilever benefits from its parent company's vast resources, allowing for significant investments in marketing and product development to maintain its competitive edge within the ready-to-eat segment.CIPLA, while primarily known for its pharmaceutical offerings, has ventured into the India Ready to Eat Meals Market with a focus on nutrition and health-oriented meal solutions. The company's product range includes ready-to-eat meals designed to meet specific dietary needs, positioning itself as a brand that prioritizes health and wellness. With a growing emphasis on nutritious convenience foods, CIPLA seeks to tap into the increasing consumer awareness regarding healthy eating. Their market presence is marked by strategic partnerships and collaborations that enhance their distribution capabilities. Strengths for CIPLA include a reputation for quality and safety in their food offerings, which resonates well with health-conscious consumers. The company's foray into the ready-to-eat space may also include mergers and acquisitions aimed at expanding their portfolio and reach within the Indian market, thereby enhancing their competitive standing as they diversify into this sector.

Key Companies in the India Ready to Eat Meals Market Include

• Hindustan Unilever


• CIPLA


• ITC


• Patanjali


• Suhana


• Tasty Bite Eatables


• Yamuna


• Agro Tech Foods


• Britannia


• MTR Foods


• Gits Food


• Wai Wai


• Bakemono


• Nestle


• Del Monte

India Ready to Eat Meals Market Industry Developments

Recent developments in the India Ready to Eat Meals Market have seen significant growth and diversification. Companies such as Hindustan Unilever, ITC, and Britannia have been rapidly expanding their product lines to cater to evolving consumer preferences, emphasizing health and convenience. In July 2023, ITC launched a new range of plant-based ready-to-eat meals, reflecting a growing trend towards vegetarianism and sustainable eating in India. Meanwhile, in September 2023, Nestle announced an increase in its investment in the ready-to-eat segment, focusing on nutritional enhancement and convenience, which is expected to impact market valuation positively. The surge in demand for ready-to-eat meals, fueled by busy urban lifestyles and the growing middle-class population, has contributed to a forecasted market growth of over 15% in the coming years. Notably, in August 2022, Tasty Bite Eatables was acquired by the global player Mars Foods, consolidating its position in the Indian market and enhancing competitiveness. The sector is also seeing increased competition from emerging brands like Patanjali and Gits Food, which are innovating traditional recipes to attract health-conscious consumers. Overall, the market is experiencing dynamic changes driven by consumer trends and strategic corporate initiatives.

India Ready to Eat Meals Market Segmentation Insights

Ready to Eat Meals Market Type Outlook

• rice and noodles


• salads


• gravies and curries


• pasta and pizzas


• soups


• others

Ready to Eat Meals Market Distribution Channel Outlook

• store-based


• non-store-based

Report Scope

Report Attribute/Metric Source	Details
MARKET SIZE 2018	5.72(USD Billion)
MARKET SIZE 2024	6.34(USD Billion)
MARKET SIZE 2035	22.36(USD Billion)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)	12.135% (2025 - 2035)
REPORT COVERAGE	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
BASE YEAR	2024
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD	2025 - 2035
HISTORICAL DATA	2019 - 2024
MARKET FORECAST UNITS	USD Billion
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED	Hindustan Unilever, CIPLA, ITC, Patanjali, Suhana, Tasty Bite Eatables, Yamuna, Agro Tech Foods, Britannia, MTR Foods, Gits Food, Wai Wai, Bakemono, Nestle, Del Monte
SEGMENTS COVERED	Type, Distribution Channel
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES	Rising urbanization and busy lifestyles, Growing demand for healthy options, Expansion of e-commerce food delivery, Increased disposable income, Diverse regional flavors and cuisines
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS	growing urbanization, busy lifestyles, increasing disposable income, changing food preferences, rising demand for convenience
COUNTRIES COVERED	India